For best results, cancer treatments require a team approach. Anyone diagnosed with colorectal cancer should have surgery with a surgeon specially trained in cancer or colorectal surgery. Some patients may need chemotherapy, either before surgery to shrink the tumor, or afterwards to reduce the risk of relapse, and these treatments should be administered under the supervision of a medical oncologist. Patients with colon cancer will generally not require radiation therapy, but those with rectal cancer will be treated by a radiation oncologist. Most major medical centers offer coordinated and integrated cancer services that include counseling, support and educational services in addition to the necessary clinical treatments.
Doctors and specialists who treat colorectal cancer include oncologists and colorectal surgeons. Oncologists are cancer specialists and colorectal surgeons are colon cancer specialists. These two types of doctors team up with the primary care doctor to provide well-rounded surgical and medical care for people with colorectal cancer.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.